De Aar is the third largest town in the Karoo. The town got its name because of the extensive underground water supply that is like a network of “arteries”. De Aar is the second most important railway junction in South Africa. The town is known for its wool production and livestock farming.
We celebrated our 21 anniversary in 2018 and proudly won the Sanlam Top 3 Star Lodge Award, whilst we also won the Lilizela Awards for the Best 3 Star Guesthouse in Northern Cape, in 2017 and again 2019. We pride ourselves by receiving 80% (equal to a 4 star grading) in this years’ grading report from the Tourism Grading Council.
Just 5 km from the Rolfontein Nature Reserve, Waterfront Boutique Hotel offers accommodation in Vanderkloof, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, and a garden. Boasting family rooms, this property also offers a braai area for guests.
When you are travelling to De Aar (Northern Cape), look out for the Schreiner House. Best place to have coffee and breakfast in De Aar. It was in this house where the famous Olive Schreiner wrote some of her most remarkable manuscripts.
Old English Pub in the South African Way… Good food & drinks with a cosy atmosphere, where else?
Martinos is a popular fast food spot in De Aar. Known for its generous menu and warm hospitality, the restaurant offers quick take-out service with a personal touch. Guests can enjoy a relaxed setting with ample parking, wheelchair access, a kids’ play area complete with a jungle gym and swings, and a cosy deck overlooking a fish pond.
Ride the thermals rising from the sunbaked Karoo plains to the crisp cobalt skies — a dream for paragliders chasing distance and freedom. On a perfect day, the sky feels endless. De Aar and Kuruman are renowned for record-breaking flights, with distances of up to 350km achieved. At the Fly De Aar aerodrome, most launches are winch-assisted, though mountain take-offs are also an option for the adventurous.
If you are interested in rock art, excellent examples of Khoisan rock engravings can be viewed on the farms Nooitgedacht, Brandfontein and Damfontein.
Step back in time with a charming horse cart tour through the streets of De Aar. These leisurely rides offer a unique way to explore the town’s history, architecture, and local culture — all from the comfort of a traditional cart. Guided by locals, the tours provide fascinating insights and a nostalgic glimpse into Karoo life before cars ruled the roads.
Named after Hans Brits, Britstown is another of the beautiful destinations of the Karoo Oasis Route and is a popular stop for those travelling between Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Sweetfontein Boutique Farm Lodge is located in the upper Karoo region along the N10, 20km from Britstown and 35km from De Aar.
This serenely situated farm lodge is a timeless beauty, touched with a gracious and mystical charm, a spirit that calls hearts to dream. Each room and living space speaks to the finest interior art and decor, promising spacious simplicity that embodies true elegance.
Vyfster The Old Jail offers a unique and comfortable stay in Britstown’s historic jailhouse, now thoughtfully transformed into a guesthouse. Much of the original character has been preserved, with engraved names and vintage photographs offering a glimpse into its storied past. Guests can stay in one of three former jail cells, now beautifully refurbished with tasteful, modern touches.
Welcome to Our Karoo Oasis: A Guesthouse and Restaurant for New Memories and Friends. Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, Northern Cape, our brand-new Guesthouse and Restaurant is a haven for travellers seeking comfort, community, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a unique holiday experience, our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to welcome you.
The Country Café in Britstown is a welcoming Karoo stop for great coffee, simple, tasty meals, and warm hospitality. Think freshly baked treats, hearty breakfast-and-lunch favourites, and friendly service that makes travellers and locals feel at home. Pull in for a relaxed bite, linger on the stoep, and soak up that small-town charm before you hit the road again.
Enjoy the best real coffee in the town’s old Mill. Relax with some freshly baked bread served with your breakfast, while watching your kids play in the garden.
Welcome to Our Karoo Oasis: A Guesthouse and Restaurant for New Memories and Friends. Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, Northern Cape, our brand-new Guesthouse and Restaurant is a haven for travellers seeking comfort, community, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a unique holiday experience, our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to welcome you.
The Britstown museum is housed in the former Holy Trinity Church. With its small, beautiful arched windows, it is a superb example of dressed stone work with raised pointing. The building was, at one time, thatched or designed for thatching. Given that Britstown is located in a very arid region of the Karoo, with an average rainfall of only 250mm, thatching grass was in short supply. Therefore, the building was roofed with corrugated iron.
Interesting archaeological sites on the farms Brakwater, Keurfontein, Maritzdam and Omdraaivlei are considered important heritage sites. You will require permission to visit. Contact local tourist information for details.
Excursions to marvel at the sparkling Karoo night sky can be arranged by Transkaroo Country Lodge. With virtually no light pollution, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, and countless constellations—often visible to the naked eye.
A typical karoo town, with well maintained remnants of Karoo-style houses, Strydenburg offers peace and quiet to all travelers passing through.
Escape to Britskraal Karoo Guest Farm, where the serene Bo-Karoo landscape invites you to unwind and reconnect. Enjoy breathtaking views, cosy up by the fireplace, and experience off-the-grid tranquillity with modern comforts. Perfect for family get-togethers or a peaceful retreat, Britskraal offers a true Karoo escape.
A surreal, off-the-grid experience in the heart of the Karoo. The beautiful Hidden Karoo Cottage is located on a sheep and cattle farm in the heart of the Karoo, between Britstown and Strydenburg.